Running Your AC and Heater at the Same Time? Here’s What you Need to Know
In Fall, keeping your house at a comfortable temperature can get a bit tricky. Switching between your AC and heater simultaneously helps —but it also has a few drawbacks. Here are some pointers and tips to help you figure out the truth from the myths surrounding AC and heater systems.
Yes, You Can Switch Between Your AC and Heater
Despite what some say, it's fine to switch between your air conditioning and heating systems. Will it cause damage? Not if you make the switch correctly.
Stay clear of extreme temperature boosts (cranking up the thermostat won't change the temperature any quicker) and pay attention to run cycles. By taking more care with your AC and heater systems, you'll avoid high energy bills and costly repairs.
When you Want to Switch from Heating to Air Conditioning or Vice Versa, Wait Until the Current Cycle Finishes.
The weather is unpredictable, and it's no surprise that you might want to switch between air conditioning and heating. However, there is a specific way to make the switch to avoid overload and system damage.
- Switch the thermostat to AUTO and wait for the current cycle to finish.
- Switch the system OFF for at least five to ten minutes. Doing this allows the system to reset.
- Adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature - but remember only by a few degrees. Cranking the thermostat up won't heat or cool your home any quicker.
- Switch to the heat setting.
Following this procedure will reduce your energy bills and prevent costly HVAC maintenance.
Why Short Cycling Your HVAC System can Cost you Money
Short-cycling is when a compressor cycles on and off frequently, causing your air conditioner to turn on and off repeatedly. Short cycling happens when the thermostat switches from heating to cooling (or vice versa) too quickly or too often.
Short cycling is a problem because it overworks your HVAC system and causes it to break down. Fans and compressors are overworked and deteriorate more quickly, leading to costly HVAC maintenance and repairs.
Constantly switching from air conditioning to heating also uses more energy. In other words, it means higher energy bills – you end up spending more money while trying to achieve that perfect temperature.
The best solution is to keep switching to a minimum to avoid your HVAC system short-cycling.
Need to Get Your HVAC Compressor Back in Action? Here's What you Need to Do
A locked-up HVAC compressor is a common problem for homeowners. The compressor is the heart of your heating and cooling system, so when it's not working properly, it can make for some cold and uncomfortable nights.
There are a variety of reasons why an HVAC compressor might lock up. One of the most common causes is when the refrigerant leaks out of the system. This happens over time as wear and tear cause leaks in the system, which means that less refrigerant will be available to cool your home when it needs it most. When this happens, your compressor won't have enough liquid inside it to function properly, which means it'll lock up after only a short time.
If you notice your air conditioning and heater system not working correctly, call an HVAC professional to determine how to fix the problem.
To Keep Your Heating and Cooling System in Good Working Order, Book Regular HVAC Maintenance Checks
The average lifespan of a central air conditioner is about 15 years. Most people who have their systems serviced yearly don't experience any problems, so it's a good idea to book regular maintenance visits.
The main benefit of regular HVAC maintenance is that it keeps your system running smoothly. It can also help you save money on energy costs and avoid costly repairs later on.
Having a professional inspect your system will ensure everything is functioning correctly and nothing has gone wrong.
It's essential to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Regular maintenance can save you money and keep your home comfortable through all seasons.
A Smart Thermostat Will Help You Through the Transition from Summer to Fall
Smart thermostats are a great way to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. But they can also save you money, help you reduce your carbon footprint, and make your life easier.
Smart thermostats work with your mobile devices to adjust the temperature in your home. They also have advanced features like automatic scheduling and remote access that make it easy to manage your home's temperature from anywhere.
Here are five reasons why purchasing a smart thermostat is a smart decision:
- Save Money on Your Heating and Cooling Bills
- Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
- Improve Home Security with Remote Access
- Schedule Temperature Changes from Anywhere with Smartphone Apps
- Monitor Energy Use with Real-Time Analytics
Contact the HVAC professionals at ProSkill today to learn more about managing your HVAC system.